Arrived at KB for the monthly faster ride. Craig was waiting and leader Robin arrived shortly after, having completed his warm up ride in to town from the new Haynes residence in Drem. And there were 3. A plan was hatched and wheels began turning in the direction of Lasswade, Carrington and Temple. The wheels were rather more moist than the forecast had suggested – both the bbc and the metoffice were sure it would be dry – in fact it was a day of short sharp (cooling) showers. After a brief stop to attend to the needs of the Haynes steed, the best fed member of the group took up rear gunning duties and we headed up into the Moorfoots. After a regroup at the top of the climb there was a long descent to compensate. At this point Robin peeled off to to head back to Haynes towers – needing time to dress for duty and get to the airport to collect the Haynes ladies. And then there were 2. Two somehow became a small peleton as we headed over to Innerleithen with everyone we overtook seeming to tag on behind. The minor road to Peebles on the south side of the Tweed followed and included a stop for homemade flapjack – a good excuse for hiding under a tree whilst a particularly heavy shower passed through (the last remnant of the peleton peeled off at this point as i was too stingy to offer my flapjack to the unknown person who had spent several miles drafting us). At Peebles Craig met up with rest of the family – human and animal (newest addition is very cute and fluffy) – and peeled off for an afternoon of diy. And then there was 1. After an unintended scenic tour of Peebles and surrounds I found my bearings and headed out to the Meldons, Eddleston, Lamancha, Moor road, Penicuik and home. A most jolly ride indeed.
Paul Ritchie